November 17, 2010

Koan Study: The Unexpected

A student finished cleaning the courtyard and told Master Li. Master Li kicked him in the shins. “Why did you do that Master?” asked the hobbling student. Master Li responded, “There is always the unexpected.”

Tao Te Ching 14

It is unseen because it is colorless; it is unheard because it is soundless; when seeking to grasp it, it eludes one, because it is incorporeal.

Because of these qualities it cannot be examined, and yet they form an essential unity. Superficially it appears abstruse, but in its depths it is not obscure. It has been nameless forever! It appears and then disappears. It is what is known as the form of the formless, the image of the imageless. It is called the transcendental, its face (or destiny) cannot be seen in front, or its back (or origin) behind.

But by holding fast to the Tao of the ancients, the wise man may understand the present, because he knows the origin of the past. This is the clue to the Tao.

Roshi Hogan Biography

When Roshi Hogan was young, there was who the neighbors called "a strange old man" who lived across the alley from him. This 'strange old man' was a former student of a Dao master in China. Becoming friends, Roshi Hogan had the wonderful opportunity to learn about the Tao from him. Such was the beginning of his practice. Roshi Hogan now passes these ancient teachings on to you. He has also had the honor of lecturing nationally, as well as internationally. Roshi Hogan is also an acclaimed artist who has exhibited at many group showings and has held solo exhibitions as well. He also enjoys writing poetry and essays and has had many articles published. His latest endeavor is digital art and photography.